We’re looking forward to introducing you to Emily Andrews. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Emily, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think what is sometimes misunderstood about my business is that when people see my affordable pricing, they assume “oh look, here comes another discounted photographer.” It can be easy to connect lower pricing with lower quality.
For me, affordability is about accessibility, not cutting corners. I believe everyone deserves beautiful storytelling images without the stress of a huge bill. Photography should be high quality and inclusive, because life’s biggest moments belong to everyone!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Emily and I run Your Life Photography here in the Tampa Bay area. I focus on capturing real, storytelling images that highlight people’s lives just as they are! from small everyday moments to big milestones. What matters most to me is keeping photography both meaningful and accessible, so families don’t have to choose between quality and affordability when it comes to preserving their memories. I’m a mom to one biological child and two children through my partner so, I know just how quickly time flies and how important it is to have memorizes you can physically look back on!
My story is one that many people can probably relate to when starting a business. When I launched Your Life Photography nearly five years ago, I was full of ideas and inspiration, but that steam eventually ran out. I became distracted and discouraged on so many levels. It wasn’t until this year that I decided to put my heart fully back into my work, and since then, my business has truly taken off. My photography has been featured a couple of times in Bold & Beautiful Magazine, including once on the cover, which was such a proud moment for me, my friends, and my family. I’m also thrilled to be back here with Voyage Tampa to share more about myself.
Recently, I have been diving into something new. For the first time ever, I will be hosting Christmas minis. Over the past month, I have been designing a custom backdrop and curating all the props. It has been such a fun process, and I cannot wait to share it with everyone and start booking families.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I was actually diagnosed with ADHD when I was extremely young. I was put on medication and just absolutely hated feeling so different from everyone around me. It was really difficult growing up with so much insecurity surrounding my own beliefs that I would never be successful. Even though I was given encouragement, I really did and still do struggle with some of those thoughts. As an adult with ADHD, I no longer let it define me. I learned in my late 20s that I would have to put in the work to heal unhealthy habits, build routines that support me, and stay focused on my goals. That journey has taught me that my differences are not limitations, but strengths I can use to shape my own path.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to myself as a child, it would be this: You are enough just as you are, and your differences are your strengths. I would want to reassure her that it’s okay to struggle and that success doesn’t look the same for everyone. I’d remind her that the challenges she faces now don’t define her future, and that with patience, self-compassion, and hard work, she can achieve incredible things.
And, just a little heads-up—don’t marry that guy when you turn 19!
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lies I think the photography industry tells itself is that owning the most expensive camera or claiming a fancy title automatically makes you a great photographer. There are people who pick up a camera and think that’s enough, others who invest in all the gear but miss the heart of creating art, and some who overprice themselves simply because they can. I’ve connected with other photographers in the past, and for some, I’ve seen how competitive and guarded it can be.
I believe in creating meaningful work, in showing up fully for your clients, and in being honest about your craft. I love sharing tips and tricks and even amazing shooting locations around town with fellow photographers!
For me, it’s not about the equipment or the price tag, it’s about the story you capture and the impact your character leaves behind.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes, I absolutely would! I’ve learned that giving your all isn’t about whether anyone notices or praises you. It’s about integrity and pride in your own work ethic and values.
We live in a praise-laden society and it’s easy to get addicted to validation from others, especially with social media and that instant gratification of a like, share or follow, but I’ve realized the only validation that really matters is the one I give myself! If I don’t like myself or if Im not proud of myself who else is going to be?! I start there and it opens up my WHOLE world. Self love is a form of manifestation. You receive what you give. 100%
Contact Info:
- Website: https://yourlifephotography5.mypixieset.com
- Instagram: Your_Life_Photography
Image Credits
All photos were taken by me. Emily Andrews- Your Life Photography
